I made my goals feel like a game | Creative Freelance Diaries

Why motivation disappears after New Year — and how to stay consistent as a creative or freelancer.

Every January, motivation feels limitless: new goals, new plans, a fresh start. And then, a few weeks later, that energy fades — often replaced by overwhelm, burnout, or self-doubt.

In this video, I reflect on why motivation spikes and crashes, how dopamine and nervous system regulation affect our energy, and why relying on motivation alone doesn’t work — especially for creatives, freelancers, and multi-passionate people.

Instead of forcing discipline, I’m learning how to build a simple system that supports consistency even during low-energy weeks. One that allows reflection without self-criticism, realistic goal-setting, and space for fluctuating energy.

This video is for you if your motivation comes in waves, if you start many things but struggle to finish, or if traditional productivity advice just doesn’t work for you.

Let’s approach the new year differently together!



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00:00 - Motivation and depression of the new year
01:25 - Dopamine induced by the new year
02:31 - Regulating my nervous system
03:29 - Yearly Review system that I swear by
04:04 - The ultimate 2025 Q&A
06:03 - This yearly review will heal you
06:51 - I am afraid to look at my own goals...
07:37 - A better way to set goals for 2026
08:19 - My goals: freelance, youtube, yoga
09:08 - A freelancer's guide to clients, offers, and pricing
09:50 - Calming down my ADHD brain
10:57 - Don't set goals. Set systems.
13:26 - Warm winter mocktail recipe
14:34 - My new planning routine for 2026
16:00 - Outro

‪@aliabdaal‬ 's Yearly Review: https://www.notion.com/templates/ali-...

#freelancelife #goalsetting #gettingmylifetogether